Colloquial French Grammar

* A readable, non--technical account of the distinctive characteristics of non--standard French morphology and syntax. * Less well--known standard structures are reviewed, and all the grammatical terms used are explained. A step--by--step guide to the International Phonetic Alphabet is included. The many differences between formal and informal, written and spoken French are one of the most striking features of the language, and can cause problems even for its native speakers. Colloquial French Grammar provides a practical, non-technical survey of those aspects of morphology and syntax where standard and non-standard French differ. Taking the key areas of grammar in turn, Rodney Ball describes the forms used in everyday French and indicates their level of colloquialness. A basic knowledge of the standard language is assumed, but less elementary points are reviewed and explanations are given of all the grammatical terms employed. Authentic conversational material is used in the examples, and there are a large number of exercises to aid and stimulate the reader. Designed specifically for the language-learner and for others who require a description of informal French structures, Colloquial French Grammar is the first systematic overview of its kind for non-native speakers. Designed specifically for the language learner and for others requiring a description of informal French morphology and syntax, Colloquial French Grammar is the first detailed non--technical survey in English of the many differences between standard and non--standard usage.